Grand Tour of Sri Lanka

One of the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots, Sri Lanka offers not only opportunities for seeing wildlife in their natural habitat, but also stunning landscapes, beautiful coastlines, the world’s finest teas, and lots of historic sites with a culture dating back over 2,500 years. In fact, this “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” has been named one of Asia’s leading destinations and on this Sri Lanka tour, you’ll experience all of this and more.Learn about Buddhism, the predominate religion in Sri Lanka, on your visits to Anuradhapura, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities; the pilgrimage site of Mihintale, Sri Lanka’s cradle of Buddhism; the Temple of the Tooth, where Buddha’s left canine is believed to be enshrined; and Bo Tree, the world’s oldest recorded tree (it was a sapling taken from the tree under which Buddha became enlightened). Marvel at Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a mountain monastery and fortress dating to the 5th century BC on top of a huge lava plug for an extinct volcano. At Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, enjoy the five preserved caverns with frescoes and Buddha statues. Keep your eyes open for native animals on your jeep safaris in Yala National Park, a bird-watcher’s paradise with over 200 bird species as well as elephants, sloth bears, water buffalo, leopards, and more. Also visit Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park, where you might spot elephants and sambar deer. Other highlights include sightseeing in Kandy, one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic cities, set in the forested hills; a picturesque train journey; a visit to a tea plantation; a visit to the ruins at Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second-most ancient kingdom and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and much more. For value-minded, savvy travelers, this Sri Lanka tour is sure to awaken and delight all of your senses!